Professor Dr. Moha: Yamin Hossain
Department of Fisheries, University of Rajshahi.
The main duties of university teachers in Bangladesh should be teaching and research. In the rapidly changing world of the twenty-first century, research and innovation are the key drivers of sustainable development for any country. In developed nations, universities not only offer education but also serve as centers for knowledge creation and the application of that knowledge for the welfare of society. Unfortunately, the existing crisis in research and education within the context of Bangladesh has become a significant obstacle to the nation’s progress.
The crisis of research in Bangladeshi universities:
Most teachers in Bangladeshi universities do not have adequate opportunities to conduct research. The reasons for this crisis are as follows:
1. Lack of research funding:
In developed countries, universities receive substantial funding for research. Research projects are financed by government, private, and international sources. But in Bangladesh, there is insufficient funding for research. Teachers are often forced to spend their own money for research, which is extremely difficult for them.
Example:
Many scientists working in agricultural research in Bangladesh have to rely on personal initiatives. In contrast, countries like India spend billions of taka annually on agricultural research. As a result, they have managed to bring about a green revolution and achieve a dramatic increase in agricultural productivity.
2. Lack of research labs and equipment:
Most universities lack modern laboratories. Even the labs that do exist are insufficiently equipped. There is little funding available for purchasing the necessary chemicals and equipment required for research.
Example:
A student at a science and technology university reports that importing chemicals needed for research takes years. Such delays disrupt the progress of research activities.
3. Lack of training in research:
Most university teachers in Bangladesh do not go abroad for higher education. They are not familiar with modern research methods. As a result, they are unable to adequately prepare students for quality research.
4. Lack of opportunities for field research:
Due to the lack of opportunities for conducting research at the field level, much relevant and necessary research remains stagnated. The absence of working in nature or real-world environments limits the outcomes of research.
5. Lack of basic facilities for researchers:
Researchers do not receive adequate facilities in proportion to their hard work. Housing, respectable salaries, and other incentives are not ensured for them at either the government or private level.
Why is research important?
Research is the foundation for economic, social, and environmental development in a country. For example:
1. Economic development:
Revolutionary changes can be brought about in the production sector by innovating new technologies. Innovative research in countries like India, China, and South Korea has helped their economies advance rapidly.
2. Advancement in the health sector:
Modern medical research has enabled the prevention and treatment of new diseases. However, in countries like Bangladesh, the lack of such research has led to minimal progress in the health sector.
4. Improvement in the quality of education:
Research ensures quality education. When teachers and students are involved in research, they are able to generate new knowledge.
The following steps can be taken to advance research:
1. Increase government funding:
It is essential to allocate adequate funds for research. Like developed countries, a significant portion of the budget must be allocated for research and development (R&D).
2. Ensure lab facilities for research:
Modern laboratories must be established in every university, and the supply of necessary equipment and chemicals must be ensured.
3. Incentives for researchers:
High salaries, housing facilities, and other incentives must be provided for researchers.
4. International collaboration:
Participate in international research projects to utilize the experience and technology of developed countries.
5. Training for teachers:
Regular training and opportunities for higher education abroad must be created for university teachers.
Conclusion:
Research is the backbone of a nation’s development. If the existing problems in research can be resolved in Bangladesh, the country’s economic, health, education, and social development will increase manyfold. For this, long-term planning and effective measures for implementing those plans are needed. Now is the time to ensure the active participation of university teachers in research.
Institutions supporting research:
Institute of Natural Resources Research and Development, Rajshahi
Hi-Tech Fisheries & Agro Limited, Rajshahi
Note: Collected from Facebook ————–https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DdAZmCyzk/
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